CREAMY CHICKEN CHEESE PASTA

CREAMY CHICKEN CHEESE PASTA

Treat yourself to a mouthwatering dish of Creamy Chicken Cheese Pasta. Tender chicken thighs seasoned to perfection, combined with a medley of bell peppers, onions, and baby spinach, all enveloped in a rich sauce made with thick cream and a blend of extra mature cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses. This comforting meal is topped with a sprinkle of parsley for a fresh touch. Dive into a plate of this delicious pasta and enjoy a delightful blend of flavors in every bite. Perfect for a cozy night in or a family dinner, this dish is sure to become a favorite!

Prep Time 15 mins Cook Time 30 mins Total Time 45 mins Difficulty: Beginner Servings: 6

Chicken:

Pasta:

Instructions

Chicken:

  1. - In a pan, melt unsalted butter and add the diced chicken.
  2. - Add minced garlic and cook until the color changes.
  3. - Sprinkle chicken seasoning over the chicken and cook until it is cooked through and browned.
  4. - Remove the cooked chicken from the pan and set it aside.

Pasta

  1. - In a deep large pot, bring water to a boil and add salt and a little bit of oil.
  2. - Add the pasta and boil according to the packet instructions.
  3. - In the same pan used for the chicken, melt 2 tbsp of unsalted butter.
  4. - Add finely diced onions, bell peppers, and minced garlic, cooking until softened.
  5. - Pour in the thick cream and cook until it begins to bubble.
  6. - Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  7. - Add the baby spinach, cooking until it is wilted.
  8. - Mix in the boiled pasta until well combined.
  9. - Add the cheese, stirring until melted and creamy.
  10. - Place the cooked chicken on top of the pasta.
  11. - Garnish with chopped parsley.
  12. - Serve and enjoy your delicious creamy chicken cheese pasta!
Nutrition Facts

Servings 6


Amount Per Serving
Calories 537.24kcal
% Daily Value *
Total Fat 31.87g50%
Saturated Fat 17.17g86%
Trans Fat 0.31g
Cholesterol 104.39mg35%
Sodium 651.38mg28%
Potassium 419.66mg12%
Total Carbohydrate 44.33g15%
Sugars 3.01g
Protein 19.21g39%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Note

Make sure the chicken thighs are fully cooked before setting them aside. This will ensure that the chicken is tender and safe to eat.

 Taste the sauce before adding the pasta to adjust the salt and pepper levels according to your preference. You can always add more seasoning if needed.

Follow the packet instructions for boiling the pasta to ensure it is cooked al dente. Overcooking the pasta can result in a mushy texture.

The combination of extra mature cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses adds depth of flavor to the dish. Feel free to adjust the cheese blend based on your preferences.

Creamy dishes are best enjoyed fresh and hot, so serve the Creamy Chicken Cheese Pasta right after preparing for the best taste and texture.

If you prefer a lighter option, you can use evaporated milk, Greek yogurt, or a combination of milk and flour as a substitute for cream. Keep in mind that the texture and flavor of the dish may vary slightly with these alternatives.

You can add vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, cherry tomatoes, or broccoli to the pasta for added flavor and nutrients. Feel free to experiment with different combinations to suit your taste preferences.

Chicken breast can be used instead of chicken thighs in this recipe. Ensure that the chicken breast is cut into bite-sized pieces and cooked until no longer pink in the center.

To make your own chicken seasoning blend, you can combine ingredients like paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried parsley, salt, black pepper, and any other herbs or spices you enjoy. Mix these seasonings together in a bowl and adjust the quantities to suit your taste preferences. You can also add a pinch of cayenne pepper for some heat if desired.

Frequently Asked Questions

Expand All:
Are there any halal or vegetarian alternatives to Parmesan cheese?

Yes, there are! Many stores offer halal Parmesan cheese, specifically labeled as such. For vegetarian options, nutritional yeast is a popular choice as it provides a cheesy flavor. Vegan Parmesan alternatives are also available in most grocery stores. Check Go Veggie - option in waitrose. 

What can I use instead of thick or double cream?

If you can't find thick cream, you can use heavy cream as a substitute. However, if you're looking for a lighter option, you can mix half-and-half with melted butter or use a combination of Greek yogurt and milk. For vegan options, consider coconut cream or plant-based cream alternatives.

Are there any other types of pasta that would work well in this recipe?

Absolutely! While pasta shells are a great choice, you can use various other pasta shapes, such as penne, fusilli, or rotini. Experiment with different shapes to find your favorite!

Can I make this recipe low-carb or keto-friendly?

Yes, you can! Use zucchini noodles (zoodles) as a pasta substitute and adjust the cheese to your liking. You can also use cauliflower rice as a base for the sauce.

Can I add other vegetables to this recipe?

Definitely! This recipe is a great base for experimenting with different vegetables. You can add broccoli, mushrooms, sweet corns or roasted red peppers for extra flavor and nutrients.

Can I use a different type of protein?

Of course! You can substitute chicken with shrimp, salmon, or tofu for a different protein source.

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